PHUKET was battered again today (Oct. 28) as 15 hours of non-stop rain from last night led to reddish-colour floodwaters surging into several locations at Patong beach town and Kata Noi beach, TV Channel 7 and Workpoint 23 said.
At approximately 3 p.m., murky, reddish-colour floodwaters gushed from the drainage system onto a road near Kata Noi beach, Karon subdistrict, Mueang Phuket district, severely hindering traffic as heavy downpour continued.
An on-site inspection revealed that the flooded road is flanked by structures or walls on both sides, with a drainage channel only on the left measuring approximately 80cm in width. This proved insufficient to handle the volume of incoming floodwaters, causing it to rapidly spill onto the road. Consequently, many motorcycles, small cars, and electric vehicles were forced to turn back. While some high-clearance pickup trucks managed to pass, all motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution.
Meanwhile, in Patong subdistrict, Kathu district, persistent rain from last night lasting over 15 hours, alternating between heavy and light downpours, led to flash floods in several areas this evening.
As of 5.30 p.m., affected locations were identified in the Na Nai area, stretching from the approach to the “50-Year Hill” (Khao 50 Pi) and in front of the Kasem Sap housing estate, as well as along Soi 5, Soi 8, and surrounding vicinities.
A large volume of floodwaters rapidly inundated the roads in less than 30 minutes, rendering some sections impassable for small cars and motorcycles. While four-wheel-drive vehicles and those with higher ground clearance may be able to navigate certain areas, it is strongly advised not to take the risk if the water depth is unknown or the current strong.
The flooding occurred during rush hour, a time when many people were returning from work or heading out to purchase food and essential supplies, causing significant disruption to travel.
Rainfall was continuing this evening with there also being no clear sign of floodwaters receding.
Officials from the Patong subdistrict municipality, Patong rescue and disaster prevention unit, local volunteers, and Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation are actively monitoring the situation, preparing for emergencies, and providing assistance to those affected.
The situation in both Karon and Patong requires close observation, particularly low-lying areas that collect runoff from the hills, and roads prone to inundation. Further heavy rainfall could cause water levels to rise rapidly. The public is urged to avoid flooded routes, refrain from driving through floodwaters if it is unsafe to do so, and ensure that vehicles are not parked in a way that obstructs water flow or the routes of emergency vehicles
CAPTION:
This and Front Page: Phuket badly flooded. Photos – TV Channel 7
Earlier report:
Officials pinpoint cause of mud and rocks swamping Patong alley
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